Raptors’ VanVleet 1 of 5 finalists for NBA’s social justice award

Fred VanVleet, Toronto Raptors point guard, has been named as one of five finalists in the NBA’s Karem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion Award.

The award recognizes an NBA player who has worked toward equity in the interests of “groups historically marginalized or systemically handicapped”.

VanVleet made history as an all-star in this season’s first season. In December, he created an academic scholarship that was awarded to a Black student or Indigenous student enrolled in the University of Toronto Rotman Commerce program.

VanVleet co-hosted “Bet on Yourself”, a podcast that highlighted struggling and up-and-coming BIPOC entrepreneurs.

The finalists were also announced as Reggie Bullock from Dallas, Minnesota, Karl-Anthony Towns of Minnesota, Jrue Holiday from Milwaukee, and Jaren Jackson Jr. from Memphis.

The NBA to will donate $100,000 US to the winner’s choice of charity, and $25,000 to those of the other finalists.

VanVleet selected Penny Appeal Canada as the recipient for his donation.

The Western Conference final will announce the award winner.